At Gawvi, we’ve been curious about the buzz surrounding curved TVs and their supposed IMAX-like experience in the comfort of your own living room. We understand that there’s an ongoing debate about the benefits of curved TVs compared to their flat counterparts. However, based on our research and extensive testing, we believe that curved TVs can indeed enhance your viewing experience while adding a touch of style.
When it comes to the best-curved TVs on the market, we’ve examined various options available in 2023. While Gawvi doesn’t manufacture or own any of these products, we’ve diligently evaluated them to help you make an informed decision. Among the major manufacturers, Samsung remains the sole company actively producing curved TVs.
Our Top Picks
1. Best Curved TV –Â Samsung Q7CN Curved QLED TV (55-inch)
I recently had a chance to check out the Samsung Q7CN 4K TV, which stands out as a premium choice for those inclined towards curved TV panels, integrating quantum dot technology to deliver bright, vivid colors and impeccable contrast ratios, making it an ideal selection for gaming enthusiasts.
The excellence in motion handling is noteworthy, ensuring smooth and crisp transitions particularly crucial for gaming and high-speed action sequences in movies. Despite its superiority in color efficiency and commendable HDR delivery, the Q7CN does have its limitations, notably a lack of contrast and local dimming capabilities, which can potentially hinder the optimal viewing experience.
Navigating through this TV is a breeze, thanks to Samsung’s Smart Hub software, which offers a multitude of features and access to widely-used video and audio streaming services, ensuring users have a plethora of entertainment options at their fingertips.
The design aesthetics are enhanced by a sleek remote control and invisible connection cable, pivotal in maintaining a clean and clutter-free setup. Available in 55- and 65-inch versions, its attractive design is complemented by excellent build quality, creating a balance between visual appeal and structural integrity.
The TV’s low input lag, coupled with superior gaming features enhances the gaming experience, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for visual precision and responsiveness.
However, the Samsung Q7CN does have its shortcomings, predominantly when viewed from an angle, where it falls prey to image degradation. This means the optimal viewing experience is largely confined to those seated directly in front, restricting the immersive experience for others in the vicinity.
This limitation is a significant consideration for consumers who prioritize inclusive viewing experiences in diverse seating arrangements. Overall, while the Q7CN is a top contender amongst curved 4K TVs, especially for gaming aficionados, prospective buyers should weigh its limitations against its substantial offerings.
- Great gaming features including variable refresh rate support
- Very wide color gamut
- It can get very bright and easily overcome glare.
- Image deteriorates when viewed at an angle
2. Samsung Class RU7300 Curved Smart 4K UHD TV (55-Inch)
When inspecting the Samsung RU7300 series, it became clear that Samsung has made a commendable effort in presenting a budget-friendly 4K TV. It stands as a testimony to the fact that acquiring 4K technology doesn’t always necessitate a substantial financial outlay.
The RU7300 series furnishes decent picture quality and UHD upscaling, enabling crisp and clear visuals. Furthermore, its user-friendly interface that incorporates connections to predominant streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu is particularly noteworthy, allowing a seamless transition between various entertainment platforms.
When assessing the picture quality, the RU7300 renders deep and uniform blacks, enhancing the visual experience in scenes with a darker setting.
However, the absence of a local dimming feature is conspicuous, and it does limit the television’s capacity to render more detailed and dynamic images.
Nonetheless, in terms of brightness, the RU7300 series suffices in moderately lit environments and demonstrates efficient glare handling, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience in varied lighting conditions. The transparent handling of the TV further accentuates the detail and sharpness of the visuals presented.
However, on the gaming front, while the RU7300 series does offer remarkably low input lag, catering to the needs of the casual gaming community, it, unfortunately, does not support advanced gaming functionalities like FreeSync, limiting its appeal to more serious gamers.
Moreover, the TV’s inability to achieve the requisite brightness levels for HDR content to truly shine and its restriction in displaying a wide color gamut do detract from the overall viewing experience, making HDR content appear less vibrant and dynamic.
Nonetheless, for those venturing into 4K territory with budget constraints, the RU7300 offers a balanced mix of features and quality.
- Produces deep, uniform blacks.
- Excellent low input lag.
- Disappointing viewing angles.
- Limited HDR performance.
3. Samsung 55NU8500 Curved 55″ 4K UHD 8 Series Smart LED TV
The 55-inch display of this TV harmoniously melds into various spatial configurations owing to its top-tier 4K technology, making it a versatile choice for any room. The capability of this television to maintain high-quality visuals even when sitting close is truly commendable.
This characteristic not only improves the efficiency of the visual experience but also enhances the flexibility in the placement of the TV. Such versatility in the layout makes this TV a charming option for consumers, allowing them to experience detailed and crisp visuals in both expansive and more confined spaces.
The inclusion of the revolutionary color display technology in the 8 Samsung TV series significantly elevates the visual experience by rendering more vibrant, deep, and varied color tones and tints than any previous models.
This feature ensures a harmonious contrast between the light and dark areas of the screen, keeping the bright spots vivid and the darker areas rich and profound.
The result is a truly lifelike and immersive visual experience, with images portrayed more realistically, captivating the audience and rendering a premium viewing experience that is unparalleled in its fidelity.
The highest available refresh rate in the market, 240Hz, is another commendable feature, particularly advantageous for sports enthusiasts. It ensures the portrayal of action sequences with optimum clarity and smoothness, eliminating any traces of blurriness or lag, regardless of the rapid movements on screen.
The swift and precise refresh rate translates into super-smooth and crisp images, allowing viewers to catch every fleeting moment in intricate detail, thereby substantially enhancing the viewing experience for fast-paced content.
This, combined with the aforementioned features, makes this television a top-tier choice for those seeking unmatched visual quality and performance.
- Great at handling motion
- Supports FreeSync VRR for use with a PC or Xbox
- Great brightness
- Image degrades when viewed at an angle
4. Samsung UN65MU8500 Curved 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD
After checking out Samsung Electronics UN65MU8500 Curved 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV firsthand, it’s clear that this device exemplifies the pinnacle of home entertainment technology.
The 4K resolution ensures that each scene is depicted with breathtaking detail, offering an immersive experience that is unparalleled, rendering every visual element with utmost precision and clarity.
The curved design of the UN65MU8500 is not just an aesthetic marvel but it also augments the overall viewing experience by adding a distinctive depth to the visuals, making them appear more encompassing and engaging.
This design, coupled with superior color reproduction technology that displays a billion more shades than standard 4K UHD, breathes life into every frame, making scenes appear incredibly lifelike and vibrant. Whether it is a serene landscape or a dynamic action sequence, the unique curvature and exceptional color fidelity make the viewing experience more intimate and realistic.
Finally, this model impresses with its advanced features like the Triple Black, which illuminates the darker scenes to showcase clear and sharp details that would otherwise be lost.Â
This, along with the Motion Rate 240, enables the depiction of fast-moving content with impressive fluidity and without any loss of detail.
The built-in Smart TV features are intuitive, facilitating seamless access to a myriad of streaming content. It’s not merely about watching content; it’s about experiencing it, and this TV has remarkably enhanced the way one interacts with and enjoys home entertainment.Â
This Samsung model is a testament to the convergence of elegant design and innovative technology, delivering an unrivaled viewing experience.
Features:
- 4K Ultra HD resolution
- Curved 65-inch screen
- Triple Black technology
- Motion Rate 240
- Smart TV capabilities
- Wi-Fi and HDMI connectivity
- 4 HDMI ports and 3 USB ports
- One Connect box for easy cable management
- OneRemote with voice navigation
- Supports YouTube and other internet services
- Stunning 4K resolution
- Immersive curved design
- Excellent color reproduction
- Clear visibility in dark scenes
- Smooth handling of fast-moving content
- Pricey compared to other models
5. Spectre Curved 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV – Best Buy curved TV
The technological prowess of this model is notable right from the get-go, delivering a spectrum of colors so vast and vivid it renders the palette on most standard televisions obsolete.
With millions of distinguishable colors and shades, the resultant image is vibrant, bringing a whole new level of entertainment to watching TV. This color vibrancy, coupled with the curvature of the screen, creates an immersive experience that is unparalleled, making it a commendable choice for those seeking quality with great value for money.
The sizable 55-inch design, paired with ultra HD technology, offers a resolution four times greater than standard HD. This exceptional resolution elucidates the minutest details, presenting an immaculate display without any pixelation, even at close proximity.
Every scene and every picture becomes a detailed exploration, revealing subtleties often missed on lower-resolution screens. This TV is particularly ideal for cinephiles and gaming enthusiasts who yearn to observe and enjoy every single detail, making the visual experience rich and rewarding.
The practicality of this model is also enhanced by its connectivity options, featuring 4 HDMI ports, allowing simultaneous connection of multiple devices, and 2 additional HDMI 2.0 ports specifically designed to stream 4K content.
This ensures a versatile and captivating experience, whether it’s gaming or streaming. Furthermore, the inclusion of an MHL port enables seamless connection with mobile smartphones, making media access from the phone remarkably convenient.
The TV’s capabilities seem boundless, and its array of features makes it an exemplary value-for-money proposition. The integrated technology, broad connectivity, and impressive display make this curved TV an undeniable contender in the market, ideal for a wide range of audiences.
Product Highlights:
- 120Hz refresh rate
- 65-inch display
- Vibrant and breathtaking colors
6. Samsung Electronics QN65Q60AAFXZA 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV
When I had the opportunity to check out this TV model at a friend’s house, I immediately noticed the vibrant and immersive visual experience promised by the 4K color drive technology.
The color rendition was notably superior, allowing the representation of shades and hues that I hadn’t perceived before on other sets.
This feature, particularly striking on a generous 65-inch screen, showcased a plethora of details and nuances, providing an unparalleled viewing experience and a rich, eye-catching display, very appealing for those keen on immersive and vibrant visuals.
The technical attributes of this TV are indeed impressive, with high dynamic range technology (HDR) enhancing its performance by delivering a broader spectrum of colors and a higher contrast ratio compared to standard 4K TVs.
This model proved to be much brighter than its curved-screen counterparts, allowing for an even more dynamic and vivid image display.
The essential black pro feature was also a remarkable addition, revealing intricate details in darker scenes and ensuring a comprehensive and immersive viewing experience, particularly beneficial for movies and series with substantial low-light cinematography.
However, from a critical perspective, I did observe that the 120Hz refresh rate, while competent in rendering action and moving scenes smoothly, may not satisfy those looking for the pinnacle of refresh speed.
In cases where the fastest refresh rate is crucial, a 240Hz option would be the preferred choice. Despite this, the refresh rate offered is satisfactory for the majority of viewing experiences and will likely only be a point of contention for the most discerning tech enthusiasts or professional gamers seeking optimum performance.
This TV amalgamates advanced technologies and substantial visual appeal, making it a formidable contender in the market.
- Screen Reflection is not severe
- Low input lag in game mode
- Black Uniformity is solid
- Price/Value
- Gaming Mode input lag (good TV for Gaming)
- HDR Premium with Active Crystal Color for future proofing
- 60Hz TV, judder can be apparent with Automotion turned off, especially with lower-end resolutions
- Side Angle Viewing contrast and color saturation degrades
- Local Dimming feature not effective
7. Samsung NU7100
The Samsung NU7100, touted as an affordable 4k TV, generally lives up to its description with its offering of sharp, clear images, particularly in settings with minimal light, thanks to its commendable contrast ratio.
After I checked out the visuals of this TV, I can vouch for its capability to deliver deep and uniform dark scenes, which enhance the viewing experience, especially when watching movies with numerous nighttime scenes.
However, it’s crucial to note the noticeable degradation in image quality when viewed from an angle, a common drawback in many models, not excluding premium ones, which could limit the viewing experience in larger gatherings or more spacious settings.
From a feature perspective, the NU7100 offers a satisfactory user experience but lacks the bells and whistles found in high-end models.
The absence of advanced Smart features and the inferior local dimming and wide color gamut may be a deal-breaker for consumers who prioritize an all-encompassing, immersive viewing experience.
It’s evident that the model’s technological concentration is more on essential, functional attributes, delivering a balanced performance.
While my personal experience with this model didn’t present any crucial performance or functionality hiccups, the lack of advanced features is palpable, especially when transitioning from a model steeped in enriched Smart functionalities.
Finally, for gaming aficionados, the low input lag and efficient motion handling are a godsend. The gaming experience on this TV is seamless and enhanced by great picture quality.
While the response time and the handling of popular inputs met my expectations, the seeming reliability issue with the HDMI cable is somewhat a letdown.
Despite the excellent sound quality and HD display, there’s a perceptible downgrade from my previous model. In essence, the Samsung NU7100 is a fitting choice for those who seek a blend of affordability and quality but may fall short for users with a penchant for top-tier features and impeccable viewing angles.
- Can produce deep and uniform dark scenes
- Feels very responsive
- Aggressive price
- Good smart platform
- Pictures look good
- Attractive curved design
- Bad viewing angles
- HDR performance is mediocre
- Not very bright
- The curved screen seems pointless
- Some backlight distractions.
8. Best Buy Curved TV – Samsung electronics QN65Q8C
The innovation entrenched in the QLED technology of this curved TV model is truly revolutionary, marking a notable advancement in display technology. It enriches the visual experience by revealing intricate details, especially in darker scenes, which were previously concealed with older technologies.
This capability to illustrate unperceivable information renders exceptional image quality, ensuring that every frame is a masterpiece, even in the most challenging lighting conditions.
The heightened color representation and illumination accentuate the immersive experience, offering a viewer-centric experience that is unparalleled.
The expansive 65-inch frame of this TV model is a testament to its grandeur, making it an ideal choice for families seeking enriched entertainment experiences.
It transforms ordinary movie nights and gaming sessions into extraordinary visual journeys, offering unparalleled detail and clarity with its 4K technology. Every bit of information is presented with impressive precision, allowing viewers to experience content on a grand, more immersive scale.
Additionally, the substantial refresh rate of 240Hz is a defining feature, ensuring absolute clarity in fast-moving scenes, and eliminating any traces of blur. The harmonious integration of HDR, 4k, QLED, and 120Hz is meticulously orchestrated to uphold the highest standards in viewing experiences, setting new benchmarks in display technology.
The user-friendly aspect of this TV is further exemplified by the virtually invisible connection cable, ensuring a sleek and uncluttered appearance.
This feature is not merely a visual enhancement but a thoughtful inclusion aimed at reducing cable-induced clutter, maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the space it occupies.
The streamlined appearance, coupled with groundbreaking technology, positions this TV as a compelling choice for those who seek unparalleled visual experiences without compromising on aesthetic appeal. It’s a harmonious blend of innovative technology and refined design, elevating the viewing experience to new heights.
- Very good color volume for HDR
- Low input lag for gaming
- Great handling of reflections
- Picture quality degrades at an angle
| TV Model and Brand | Display Size | Resolution | HDR Support | Smart TV Platform | Refresh Rate | Audio Output | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Q7CN Curved QLED TV | 55-inch | 4K UHD | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | Tizen OS | 120Hz | 40W, 4.1ch | $1,299 – $1,499 |
| Samsung Class RU7300 Curved Smart 4K UHD TV | 55-inch | 4K UHD | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | Tizen OS | 60Hz | 20W, 2ch | $599 – $699 |
| Samsung 7 Series 65-inch | 65-inch | 4K UHD | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | Tizen OS | 60Hz | 20W, 2ch | $1,199 – $1,399 |
| Samsung 55NU8500 Curved 55″ 4K UHD 8 Series Smart LED TV | 55-inch | 4K UHD | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | Tizen OS | 120Hz | 40W, 2.1ch | $999 – $1,199 |
| Spectre Curved 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV | 55-inch | 4K UHD | HDR | SmartCast OS | 60Hz | 16W, 2ch | $449 – $499 |
| Samsung Electronics QN65Q60AAFXZA 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV | 65-inch | 4K UHD | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | Tizen OS | 60Hz | 20W, 2ch | $899 – $1,099 |
| Samsung NU7100 | 55-inch | 4K UHD | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | Tizen OS | 60Hz | 20W, 2ch | $599 – $699 |
| Samsung electronics QN65Q8C | 65-inch | 4K UHD | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | Tizen OS | 120Hz | 40W, 4.1ch | $1,999 – $2,299 |
How to Choose an Ideal Curved TV
Choosing an ideal curved TV can be a daunting task due to the plethora of options available in the market, each with varying specifications, features, and prices.
Curved TVs are known for offering immersive viewing experiences by wrapping the image around the viewer, bringing the edges of the screen into the viewer’s peripheral vision.
To choose the ideal curved TV that suits one’s needs and preferences, considering factors such as screen size, resolution, display technology, and additional features is crucial.
Consider the Screen Size
Screen size is a critical factor to consider when selecting a curved TV. Large screen sizes are more suitable for curved TVs, as they enhance the immersive experience that these TVs are known for.
A screen size of 55 inches or more is generally recommended to take full advantage of the curvature. However, the choice of size also depends on the size of the room where the TV will be placed and the distance from which it will be viewed.
Therefore, measure the space before making a decision, keeping in mind that the TV should not overwhelm the room but should be large enough to provide an immersive experience.
Evaluate the Screen Resolution
High screen resolution is crucial for clear, crisp, and detailed visuals. Most modern curved TVs come with at least Full HD resolution, but for superior image quality, opting for a 4K or even 8K TV is advisable.
Higher resolution TVs are particularly beneficial for larger screen sizes, as they maintain image clarity and detail even when viewed from close distances. Furthermore, ensure that the TV supports High Dynamic Range (HDR) for more vibrant and realistic colors.
Explore Display Technology Options
Curved TVs are available with different display technologies, primarily OLED and LED-LCD. OLED displays offer better contrast ratios, more vibrant colors, and faster refresh rates compared to LED-LCD displays.
They also provide wider viewing angles, ensuring the image quality doesn’t degrade when viewed from the side.
However, OLED TVs tend to be more expensive. LED-LCD TVs, on the other hand, are more affordable and offer excellent brightness and color accuracy, but may lack the superior black levels and contrast ratios of OLEDs.
Check Connectivity and Smart Features
Modern curved TVs often come equipped with a range of connectivity options and smart features.
Look for a TV with enough HDMI and USB ports to connect all your devices, such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices. Additionally, consider whether the TV offers smart functionality, allowing you to access streaming services, browse the internet, and install apps directly on the TV.
Voice control and integration with smart home ecosystems can also add convenience and enhance the user experience.
Review Additional Features and Warranty
Finally, explore any additional features that can enhance your viewing experience, such as built-in sound systems, ambient mode, or customizable display settings.
Consider the TV’s aesthetic appeal, build quality, and whether it complements your home décor. Before finalizing your purchase, check the warranty and after-sales service provided by the manufacturer, as these can be significant when dealing with potential issues or required repairs.
FAQ
Are curved TVs worth buying?
Curved TVs were introduced a few years ago as a new innovation in TV design. The idea behind them was to provide a more immersive viewing experience, with the curvature of the screen supposedly giving a more natural and cinematic feel.
However, the question of whether curved TVs are worth buying really depends on personal preference and specific needs. Some people find the curved design to be aesthetically pleasing and enjoy the immersive viewing experience. Others may not find the curved design to be as comfortable or natural to watch, especially when viewing from angles other than straight ahead.
In terms of technical features, curved TVs may offer some benefits over traditional flat-screen TVs. The curved design can reduce reflections and glare, which can be helpful in rooms with lots of natural light or windows. Additionally, some curved TVs have wider viewing angles than flat-screen TVs, which can be helpful for larger rooms or when viewing with a group of people.
However, curved TVs can also have some drawbacks. They tend to be more expensive than flat-screen TVs, and the curved design can make them more difficult to mount on a wall or fit into certain entertainment centers. Additionally, the curved design can cause some distortion in the image, particularly when viewed from off-center angles.
Why Samsung stopped making curved TV?
Samsung, one of the major manufacturers of curved TVs, has shifted its focus away from curved TVs in recent years. While they were once heavily promoting curved TVs as the next big thing in home entertainment, Samsung has since stopped producing them and has moved on to other TV technologies.
There are several reasons for this shift in focus. Firstly, curved TVs proved to be a relative niche product, with demand not meeting the expectations of the manufacturers. Secondly, the production of curved TVs is more complex and costly compared to flat-screen TVs. This resulted in curved TVs being priced higher, making them less competitive in the market. Additionally, mounting a curved TV can be more difficult and require specialized brackets, which can make it harder to integrate into some homes.
Another factor that may have contributed to Samsung’s decision to stop producing curved TVs is the rise of newer technologies, such as OLED and QLED, which offer superior picture quality compared to curved TVs. These new technologies also come in flat-screen designs, making them easier to integrate into homes and more affordable.
Is there a curved OLED TV?
Yes, there are curved OLED TVs available on the market. OLED (organic light-emitting diode) technology is known for its excellent picture quality and black levels, and the curved design can provide an even more immersive viewing experience.
Several manufacturers produce curved OLED TVs, including LG, Sony, and Panasonic. LG, in particular, has been a leader in the curved OLED TV market, with models such as the LG OLED77G6P and LG OLED65C7P.
Curved OLED TVs can offer several advantages, including reduced reflections and glare, wider viewing angles, and a more natural and cinematic viewing experience. However, as with any technology, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider, such as the higher cost and the difficulty of mounting on a wall or fitting into certain entertainment centers.
Final Thoughts
The world of curved TVs offers a unique and immersive viewing experience that stands out from traditional flat-screen counterparts. While the debate continues regarding the superiority of curved over flat, there’s no denying the aesthetic appeal and the potential for a more cinematic experience that curved TVs bring to the table.
As of this year, Samsung remains at the forefront of this niche market, producing some of the best-curved TVs available. Whether you’re seeking enhanced visuals, a touch of modern style, or simply want to dive into the curve trend, our comprehensive guide at Gawvi has got you covered. Dive into the curve and redefine your viewing experience!